This trip was so sudden that I even tried to back out because of some personal and professional reasons. But the good thing is I still pursued this trip.
I always go on a trip (as scheduled) last week before the year ends. But this one was something special maybe extra special. Maybe because people with me during this trip are special people with special place in my heart.
Enough of the sweet talk let me walk you through with the one of the highlights of our tour. I was born in this province (Negros Occidental) and seen a lot of old houses in nearby towns and cities. I couldn't imagine that in the center of Talisay sugar plantation hid an old house with full of history. The house of Don Mariano that was built for his wife Maria Bragga. This was built during the Spanish period and note that same materials was used like those old churches which stands until now. No wonder why until now this house stand still.
Before you reach the place you will pass by the wide sugar plantation of Talisay City. The plantation was said to be owned the Don Mariano before. When you enter the vicinity you will be stunned by the view of the ruined house glowing like it is still new, except for the fact of course that it was burned during the Japanese occupation for it not to be used as a garrison by the Japanese. There are two guys who will gladly walked you though the history of the house. Originally it is done by Kuya Roger (who is my kasimanwa - we are living in the same town - E. B. Magalona) but right now he is relieved by Mars (who is our tour guide that night).
After which we had dinner at their Italian restaurant (Restorante) and was entertained with old music which is very relaxing and having the house as our background. We stayed until 8 in the evening enjoying the fascinating view of the old house.
I'm just wondering... How many houses like this are standing still and ready to unfold our history? ;)
